Nothing quite captures the essence of regional culture like local cuisine. This is especially true when it comes to Tennessee, a state known for its musical heritage, stunning landscapes, and, most importantly, its mouthwatering food.
Whether you’re a foodie eager to expand your culinary horizons or a traveler looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, Tennessee’s diverse and delicious gastronomic offerings are not to be missed.
Dive in with us as we explore the must-try foods that capture the essence of Tennessee.
- Barbecue
Barbecue in Tennessee is a culinary art form steeped in tradition and regional nuances. Memphis, a city with over 100 barbecue joints, is renowned for its dry-rubbed ribs. The ribs are seasoned with a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper before being smoked for hours. Many establishments also offer wet ribs slathered in a tangy sauce before and after the smoking process.
In East Tennessee, the barbecue is usually made using a tomato-based sauce, particularly with pulled pork. The sauce often has a tangy, vinegary undertone, which pairs excellently with the smoky, tender meat. The pulled pork is commonly served as a sandwich, piled high on a bun, and often accompanied by coleslaw. Options like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread frequently share the spotlight with the meat.
- Handcrafted Food
Consider taking a detour to Elkmont TN if you want to try something fresh and out of the ordinary while exploring Tennessee’s culinary scene.
This small town offers a distinct blend of Southern charm and artisanal craftsmanship, particularly when it comes to food. However, if you can’t make it to Elkmont, Elkmont Station in Knoxville is an Elkmont-inspired food stop where people can enjoy local, artisan food that reflects the region’s uniqueness. The chefs and food artisans here focus on quality ingredients, typically sourcing from local farms to produce dishes that not only satisfy your taste palette but also pay homage to Tennessee’s rich culinary heritage. Every item conveys a tale of artistry and passion, from Coq au Vin to Short Rib Gnocchi.
- Hot Chicken
Nashville Hot Chicken has a captivating backstory. It is said to have originated from a local revenge plot involving a spurned lover who tried to punish her unfaithful beloved with unbearably spicy chicken. But the plan backfired, and he loved it. Now, the dish has evolved into a Nashville icon. The spice levels can range from mild to painfully hot, often indicated by a color-coded system at many local restaurants.
Authentic hot chicken is marinated for hours in a buttermilk-based batter, coated in a seasoned flour mixture, and deep-fried to perfection. Then, it’s generously brushed or dunked in a spicy cayenne pepper sauce. It’s not just fried chicken; it’s an experience that is often enjoyed with slices of white bread to absorb the heat and pickles to cut through the spice.
- Biscuits and Gravy
The origins of biscuits and gravy can be traced back to Southern Appalachia, where the dish served as an affordable and filling option for impoverished communities. Today, it has transcended its humble roots and can be found in upscale diners and five-star hotels. Freshly baked biscuits serve as the bedrock of this dish, providing a fluffy contrast to the rich, creamy gravy poured on top.
In most homes and diners, the gravy is often prepared with pork sausage. This sausage gravy is seasoned liberally with black pepper, creating a hearty topping that fills you up and warms your soul.
Some chefs even put their own creative spin on the classic, adding ingredients like spicy chorizo or infusing the gravy with herbs like sage or thyme. Despite the variations, the essence of biscuits and gravy remains a comforting constant.
- Country Ham
Country ham is made with an old-world food preservation technique that has stood the test of time. Often made from a specific cut of pork, the ham is cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and other seasonings before undergoing a long aging process, resulting in a lump of dense, salty meat.
Country ham is extremely versatile. It can be sliced thin and served uncooked, similar to prosciutto. Or it can be fried until crispy for a BLT sandwich. Some people even soak slices in a pot of red-eye gravy to soften the meat and add another layer of flavor. Regardless of how you enjoy it, country ham is an essential part of Tennessee’s culinary landscape.
- Fried Catfish
Fried catfish is a dish that showcases Tennessee’s abundant freshwater resources. The fish is typically coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter and deep-fried until the exterior is crispy and golden, while the interior remains moist and flaky.
No plate of fried catfish is complete without its traditional sides: hushpuppies and coleslaw. The hushpuppies are deep-fried balls of cornmeal batter, often seasoned with onions and garlic. The coleslaw adds a tangy, crunchy contrast, usually made from finely shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a creamy or vinegar-based dressing.
A variety of dips, including tartar sauce, cocktail sauce, and a squeeze of lemon, often complement the dish, adding layers of flavor and complexity.
- Grits
Grits have Native American roots and were adopted by early settlers as a versatile and readily available food source. At their most basic, grits are made by boiling ground corn in water or milk until they reach a creamy consistency.
Today, grits are a staple in Southern cooking and are often enjoyed as both a side dish and a main course. They can be prepared sweet, with a touch of sugar and milk, or savory, often loaded with cheese or cooked with shrimp and a blend of spices.
- Moon Pies
Moon Pies have been a Tennessee tradition for over 100 years. Created in Chattanooga, this dessert was originally aimed at coal miners looking for a “working man’s lunch.” It has since become a cultural icon, often associated with holidays and special occasions.
The classic version consists of two round graham cracker cookies with a marshmallow filling, all enrobed in a layer of chocolate. However, over the years, people have introduced new flavors like banana and strawberry to spice things up. Moon Pies are commonly enjoyed during holidays, especially Mardi Gras, and are often nostalgically paired with an RC Cola—a combination so classic it even inspired a country song.
Conclusion
Tennessee’s food landscape is as varied and rich as its music and scenery. From spicy hot chicken to comfort foods like biscuits and gravy, there’s something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself in the Volunteer State, indulge in these culinary gems to experience the true essence of Tennessee.